Job Interviewing Tips
By Davidson Legal Staffing
Originally published in the Legal Secretaries, Incorporated Law Office Administration newsletter in August 2005
Through our years of experience at Davidson Legal Staffing, we have interviewed thousands of applicants and have been formally trained on the art of interviewing, so we know what makes certain individuals stand out above the crowd. We've compiled some great tips on resumes and interviewing, which we hope you will find helpful in landing your ideal position!
When setting an interview, make sure to take down the following information:
- Appointment date and time
- Name, phone number, and title of the person you will be interviewing with
- Address
- Directions
Research the company and industry before your interview. This demonstrates your interest and shows that you are resourceful. You can utilize the Internet, library periodicals, and also ask your placement consultant - we will have a complete profile of the company including number of employees, products and services, and number of years in business. Prepare yourself with 2 - 3 solid questions about the position and/or expectations about the position that you can ask during your interview.
If possible, drive by the company or firm the day before - getting lost can make you late for the interview, in addition to making you nervous and anxious.
Bring with you names, addresses and contact information for reference purposes, and dates of employment from previous employers along with extra copies of your resume. Make sure to fill out the application completely - do not write "see resume." Be prepared to provide reasons for leaving your previous positions.
Dress Appropriately!
- Gentlemen
A dark colored suit is best. If appropriate, nice slacks, dress shirt, and tie. Make sure your shoes are polished with no scuff marks. Do not wear cologne.
- Ladies
A conservative dark colored suit is best. If appropriate, a nice skirt and blouse. Always wear nylons with closed toed shoes that are not scuffed up, and never wear fragrance. Fragrance can be offensive, and some people may be allergic.
Interview Day
It is important that you reflect a positive attitude - do not dread the interview. Believe in yourself and your abilities.
- Take a deep breath and relax.
- Remember the interview is not an interrogation. It is an opportunity to present your work history and personality as it relates to the position.
- Arrive 10 minutes early, and be positive and friendly to the receptionist and other people in the office. They could be your future co-workers.
- Never chew gum or smoke before, during, or after an interview, even if offered.
When you are introduced to the interviewer, stand up straight and give a firm handshake. Let the interviewer set the tone and pace of the interview but not necessarily control the interview. It is your responsibility to express to the interviewer your qualifications, work history and why you are the best person for the job. Sell yourself!
Answer the interviewer's questions directly, but give details. For example:
Question: Have you worked with MS Word?
Answer: Yes, I've used MS Word for the last 3 years and I am very comfortable creating and maintaining documents.
Relate your answers to the position you are applying for. For example, if you are interviewing for a research position, talk about your abilities to locate information and experience utilizing various resources.
- Don't talk negatively about your previous employers.
- Never offer personal information, unless directly related to the job.
- Ask each person you've interviewed with for a business card.
Closing
At the end of the interview, be ready to ask questions. Use your research to prepare some questions in advance. You need to show your interest in the company and position. We suggest that you do not ask questions related to salary or benefits - they are not appropriate at this time. Sample questions:
- Why is this position open?
- Please describe the personality that suits this position.
- What is a typical workday like?
Ask for the position!
If you are interested in the position, be sure to let the interviewer know even if they don't ask. Say, "I appreciate the time you have given me and I am highly interested in joining your company. What is the next step?"
Send a hand-written thank you note the same day.
If you met with more than one person, send one to each person individually, using the business cards you asked for in order to spell their names correctly. Include again that you appreciated their time and why you feel you would be the best person for job - be short and simple.
If you don't hear from them within a week, call to find out where they are in the decision making process. Don't pester them, but show interest.
Good Luck!
We hope that these helpful interviewing tips will assist you in standing out above the competition! For more assistance, please call us, and be sure to visit our legal job board at www.CAlawjobs.com for all our legal job opportunities.
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